What Great Minds Can Do: Gabriele Zengewald  

"The graduate education I received from Seton Hall was second to none. The skills and confidence I gained set me up for success personally and professionally."

Gabriele Zengewald graduated from the M.A. in Strategic Communication program within the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media more than a year ago, but she is still amazed by the quality of education she received. From intimate class sizes to the vast network of campus resources available, she feels the program provided the highest level of instruction and support possible. 

"The graduate education I received from Seton Hall was second to none," Zengewald said. "The skills and confidence I gained set me up for success personally and professionally."

Zengewald credits the program's faculty with fostering such a positive experience. She described them as "smart, compassionate and supportive," and shared that the faculty consistently took the time to ensure their students understood what makes a successful communicator – both inside and outside of the classroom. 

"They were always there when I needed to meet or had a question," Zengewald said. "They guided and encouraged me throughout my entire master's project, and I could not have done any of it without them."

Dr. Renee Robinson, who Zengewald considers a mentor, worked with her during an independent study course in which she adapted her master's project research to create communication curriculum geared towards expectant mothers. Looking back, she shared it was exciting and rewarding to have such an opportunity, and she will always appreciate Robinson for making it happen.

Of course, the program didn't come without challenges for Zengewald. In addition to her coursework, she served as a full-time administrator for the University's College of Nursing.

"I really focused on growing and improving and taking what I learned to better myself in my career," Zengewald said. "While taking courses, I applied the skills I learned directly to my work in real time. Becoming a master in communicating and translating lessons in public relations, advanced writing, strategy and research gave me the confidence to apply for and get a promotion once I earned my degree."

That promotion eventually led to Zengewald's current role as director of graduate admissions and compliance for the College of Nursing. The program also inspired her to further her education. She is currently working towards her doctorate in the University's Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management and Policy program. Her goal is to leverage her advanced degrees to progress as a higher education administrator. 

"If someone is looking to take their career to the next level and wants to learn and grow as a professional, they should attend Seton Hall," Zengewald said. "Whether you are interested in communication in organizations, training and development or digital communication, the graduate communication program offers a variety of course options – all of which are designed to prepare you for professional success."

This profile was written by Sean Quinn, a Graduate Assistant for Graduate Studies within the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media and an M.A. in Public Relations student.